As of October 2023, the Cameroonian passport is ranked 176th in the world, which poses certain travel restrictions for its citizens. Cameroonian passport holders can enjoy visa-free access to 21 countries and territories, while for other destinations, they may require either an eVisa or a visa on arrival. Here's a detailed breakdown of the travel options available for Cameroonian citizens:

Visa-Free Travel Destinations

Cameroonian passport holders are fortunate to have visa-free access to 21 countries and territories. These destinations offer a wide range of experiences, from picturesque islands to vibrant cities. Here is the list of visa-free travel options for Cameroonian citizens:

• Barbados
• Benin
• Central African Republic
• Chad
• Republic of the Congo
• Cook Islands
• Dominica
• Equatorial Guinea
• Gabon
• Grenada
• Haiti
• Lesotho
• Micronesia
• Montserrat
• Nigeria
• Niue
• Philippines
• Samoa
• Singapore
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Vanuatu

Please note that even for visa-free travel, it is essential to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your departure date. Additionally, some countries may require you to purchase travel health insurance as a mandatory requirement.

E-Visa Options for Cameroonian Citizens

For those destinations that do not offer visa-free access, Cameroonian passport holders have the option of obtaining an electronic visa or eVisa. An eVisa is a convenient way to apply for a visa online, eliminating the need to visit a physical application center. The following 16 countries offer eVisas to Cameroonian citizens:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bahrain
• Djibouti
• India
• Kenya
• Kyrgyzstan
• Myanmar
• Qatar
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Suriname
• Uzbekistan
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

The process of obtaining an eVisa is straightforward. You can submit your application online, including payment. 

Once your application is approved, you will receive an email confirming your visa status and a document that you must print out and carry with you when crossing the border. While your visa will be registered online, it's advisable to keep a physical copy of the permit with you during your travels.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) Countries

Cameroonian citizens can also obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) for 28 countries. A VOA allows you to acquire your visa upon entering the country at designated sections within the airport. Here is the list of countries that offer this option:

• Bangladesh
• Bolivia
• Cambodia
• Cabo Verde
• Comoros
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Guinea-Bissau
• Iran
• Macau
• Madagascar
• Maldives
• Mauritania
• Mauritius
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Palau
• Rwanda
• Senegal
• Seychelles
• Sierra Leone
• Somalia
• Saint Lucia
• Tanzania
• Timor-Leste
• Togo
• Tuvalu
• Uganda

For a smoother VOA experience, it is recommended to have all necessary travel documents, proof of accommodation, and funds readily available upon arrival.

Countries Requiring Visas for Cameroonian Citizens

While Cameroonian citizens have a range of visa-free, eVisa, and VOA options, there are still 161 countries that require them to obtain a traditional visa in advance. The specific visa requirements and application processes may vary significantly from one country to another. It's essential to verify the requirements of the destination you plan to visit.

How to Apply for a Visa

The application process for a traditional visa typically follows these steps:

• Appointment: Contact the local visa application center in Cameroon and schedule an appointment. Be prepared for potential waiting times, as scheduling a meeting with the embassy or consulate may take several months.
• Document Preparation: Gather the necessary documents for your visa application. These may include your passport, completed application form, health insurance, and more. Certain documents may need to be verified with an apostille stamp or certified by a foreign office.
• Application Submission: Submit your visa application, attend the visa interview (if required), and provide any requested biometrics. Ensure your documents are translated as per embassy or consulate requirements and verified with an apostille stamp if applicable. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several weeks for a decision to be made.

Remember that if you already possess a valid visa that grants access to multiple countries, you may not need to apply for a new visa. It's essential to research the specific requirements and procedures for your intended destination and stay informed about any changes in visa policies.

Required Visa Application Documents

The necessary documents for a visa application can vary depending on the destination. However, most countries will typically require the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Your Cameroonian passport is a fundamental requirement. Ensure that it has at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date. It's a good practice to include a photocopy of the passport's main information page.
• Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form provided by the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit. This form gathers essential information about your trip, personal details, and the purpose of your visit.
• Passport Photos: Typically, you will need recent passport-sized photos that adhere to the specific dimensions and guidelines outlined by the embassy or consulate. These photos should not be older than six months.
• Travel Health Insurance: Many countries require proof of travel health insurance that covers the duration of your stay. This insurance should include coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. Check the minimum coverage amount and specific coverage requirements of the destination country.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: Ensure that you provide evidence of payment for the visa application fee. Payment methods and fee amounts can vary, so confirm these details with the embassy or consulate.
• Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed travel itinerary that outlines your planned destinations, accommodations, and activities during your visit. This should include flight reservations, hotel bookings, and a schedule of your activities.
• Letter of Invitation (if applicable): If you are visiting friends or family, attending a conference, or have been invited by an organization or company, a formal invitation letter may be necessary. This letter should include the inviter's contact information, the purpose of your visit, and your relationship to the inviter.
• Return Ticket: A confirmed round-trip or return ticket that demonstrates your intention to leave the country before your visa expires is often required.
• Proof of Accommodation: Provide evidence of your booked accommodation for the duration of your stay. This can include hotel reservations, a letter from a host, or other suitable arrangements.
• Sufficient Funds: You may need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country. This could involve bank statements, proof of employment, or other financial documents.
• Civil StatusDocuments: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may be asked to provide civil status documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or proof of relationships if you are visiting family members.
• Criminal Record Check: Some countries may request a criminal record check as part of the visa application process. Ensure that your record is clear, and provide any required documents.

It's crucial to note that a prior criminal history may lead to visa rejection. Therefore, ensuring that you meet all visa requirements is essential for a successful application.

FAQ

Q1: Is Cameroon visa-free to India?

A: No, a visa is required for entry into India for holders of Cameroonian passports.

Q2: Is Cameroon eligible for Turkish eVisa?

A: Yes, Cameroonians are eligible for the Turkey electronic visa. They can obtain a tourist Turkey Visa by filling out an online application form.

Q3: Is Seychelles visa-free for Cameroon?

A: Yes, Cameroonian citizens do not need a tourist visa when traveling to Seychelles in 2023. They can stay in Seychelles for a short period of time (up to 90 days) without a visa.

Q4: Does Cameroon have eVisa?

A: Yes, for a trip to Cameroon, a visa will be required. The price of the electronic visa starts at 207 €, and with an eVisa, you can stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Q5: Which African countries are visa-free for India?

A: African countries that can be accessed by Indians without a visa are Tunisia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Botswana, Burundi, Cape Verde Islands, Madagascar, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Comoro Islands, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Tanzania, Togo, Sierra Leone, and Somalia.